Authors

  1. Barsuk, Jeffrey H. MD, MS
  2. Cohen, Elaine R. MEd
  3. Mikolajczak, Anessa BSN, RN
  4. Seburn, Stephanie BSN, RN
  5. Slade, Maureen MS, RN
  6. Wayne, Diane B. MD

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: This study evaluated the impact of a simulation-based mastery learning (SBML) curriculum on central line maintenance and care among a group of ICU nurses.

 

METHODS: The intervention included 5 tasks: (a) medication administration, (b) injection cap (needleless connector) changes, (c) tubing changes, (d) blood drawing, and (e) dressing changes. All participants underwent a pretest, engaged in deliberate practice with directed feedback, and completed a posttest. We compared pretest and posttest scores and assessed correlations between demographics, self-confidence, and pretest performance.

 

RESULTS: The number of nurses passing each task at pretest varied from 24 of 49 (49%) for dressing changes to 44 of 49 (90%) for tubing changes. At pretest, scores ranged from a median of 0.0% to 73.1%. At posttest, all scores rose to a median of 100.0%. Total years in nursing and ICU nursing had significant, negative correlations with medication administration pretest performance (r = -0.42, P = .003; r = -0.42, P = .003, respectively).

 

CONCLUSION: ICU nurses displayed large variability in their ability to perform central line maintenance tasks. After SBML, there was significant improvement, and all nurses reached a predetermined level of competency.